Performance, Personality, and Proven Safety — Inside the World of Troy Lee Designs
Few brands in the world of mountain biking and motocross carry the weight of Troy Lee Designs.
What began as a small helmet-painting shop in Southern California has grown into one of the most respected names in MTB protection, apparel, and culture.
In 2026, Troy Lee Designs (TLD) continues to lead the charge — blending art, engineering, and athlete feedback to create gear that doesn’t just perform at the top level but looks the part too.
In this in-depth brand review, we’ll cover TLD’s history, top product lines, safety innovations, and how it stacks up against competitors like Fox Racing, 100%, and POC.
Brand Overview
Founded: 1981
Headquarters: Corona, California, USA
Core Products: Helmets, protective gear, riding apparel, and accessories
Focus: MTB, BMX, Moto, and Enduro performance
Troy Lee Designs began when Troy Lee — a motocross racer with a knack for design — started custom-painting helmets for friends and pros.
The brand quickly became synonymous with bold aesthetics and professional-grade performance.
Today, TLD sponsors elite athletes and teams across MTB and moto, including Canyon Factory Racing, GasGas Factory Racing, and Red Bull Rampage riders.
What sets TLD apart? A unique fusion of artistic expression and safety innovation that makes every product as stylish as it is functional.
Design Philosophy: Where Art Meets Engineering
TLD has always been about form meeting function. Every helmet, jersey, and pair of shorts is designed to protect and perform — but with unmistakable flair.
Core Brand Principles
- Performance First: Designed for professional use, tested at the world’s toughest events.
- Artistic Identity: Bold graphics, unique colorways, and limited-edition collabs.
- Innovation-Driven: Incorporates technologies like MIPS, EPP liners, and D3O armor.
- Rider Feedback Loop: Gear developed directly with input from top athletes.
BBB Take: Troy Lee’s design DNA is unmistakable — a perfect blend of protection, creativity, and confidence.
Top Product Lines (2026)
1. TLD A3 Helmet — The Ultimate Trail & Enduro Helmet
Best for: Trail, enduro, and all-mountain riders
Price: $249
Rating: 9.8 / 10
The A3 is TLD’s flagship open-face helmet and arguably one of the best trail helmets on the market.
It’s built around dual-density EPP + EPS foam, MIPS B-Series rotational protection, and breakaway visor screws — all designed for safety and comfort.
Highlights:
- MIPS B-Series protection system
- 3-way adjustable fit
- Fidlock magnetic buckle
- 16 ventilation ports
- Luxurious anti-microbial liner
Verdict: Elite comfort and protection with unmatched aesthetics. Still the trail benchmark in 2026.
2. D4 Carbon Full-Face Helmet — The Gold Standard in DH Protection
Best for: Downhill, freeride, BMX, and bike park
Price: $599
Rating: 9.9 / 10
The D4 Carbon continues to dominate the downhill helmet market. It’s featherlight, aerodynamic, and tested by top pros at Red Bull Rampage.
Highlights:
- Aerospace-grade carbon shell
- MIPS C2 system
- 13 intake + 6 exhaust vents
- Titanium D-ring hardware
- Weighs just 1,000 g (size M)
Verdict: The most premium full-face MTB helmet in the world. Period.
3. Stage Helmet — Lightweight Enduro Hybrid
Best for: Enduro and e-MTB riders
Price: $329
Rating: 9.6 / 10
The Stage bridges the gap between open-face and full-face helmets — offering DH-certified protection at trail-helmet weight.
Highlights:
- MIPS + dual-density EPS/EPP
- 690 g lightweight shell
- 11 ventilation channels
- Dual visors
Verdict: The go-to helmet for aggressive trail riders and e-MTB explorers.
4. TLD Skyline Kit — Lightweight Comfort for All-Day Rides
Best for: Trail and XC
Price: $85 jersey / $99 shorts
Rating: 9.4 / 10
The Skyline collection delivers everyday performance in a breathable, relaxed fit.
Made from recycled Bluesign® fabrics, it’s sustainable, comfortable, and packed with features.
Highlights:
- 4-way stretch fabric
- UPF 50+ protection
- Laser-perforated ventilation
- Adjustable waist tabs
Verdict: The best-selling TLD apparel line — ideal for daily riders who want comfort and class.
5. TLD Sprint Ultra Kit — Race-Ready Performance
Best for: Downhill and park riders
Price: $129 jersey / $169 pants
Rating: 9.5 / 10
The Sprint Ultra line is designed for speed — slim-fitting, durable, and breathable under full-face helmets.
Highlights:
- 4-way stretch TLD Ultra Knit fabric
- Laser-cut ventilation
- Silicone grippers and minimal seams
Verdict: Premium race-day kit for serious gravity riders.
6. Protection Gear — Elbow & Knee Guards
Best for: All disciplines
Top Models: TLD Raid, Speed, and Stage Guards
Rating: 9.3 / 10
Using D3O reactive armor, TLD’s protective line combines impact absorption with flexibility.
Highlights:
- Slip-on designs
- Breathable mesh backing
- Durable Kevlar reinforcements
Verdict: Lightweight protection that disappears when you’re riding — a must for modern trail setups.
TLD Helmet Technology Breakdown
Troy Lee Designs helmets are engineered with multi-impact protection and rotational energy management in mind.
| Feature | Purpose | Found In |
|---|---|---|
| MIPS (B-Series / C-Series) | Reduces rotational impact forces | A3, D4, Stage |
| EPP + EPS Dual Foam | Manages high and low-speed impacts | A3, Stage |
| Breakaway Visor Bolts | Prevents rotational neck injury | A3, D4 |
| Fidlock Buckle | Magnetic one-hand closure | A3, Stage |
| XT2 Liner | Anti-microbial and moisture-wicking | All helmets |
BBB Take: TLD’s protection systems rival Fox and POC, but their fit and style set them apart.
How Troy Lee Designs Compares
| Brand | Strength | Weakness | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Troy Lee Designs | Iconic style + elite safety | Premium pricing | Trail / DH riders |
| Fox Racing | Broad product line | Heavier helmets | Enduro / Trail |
| 100% | Lightweight helmets | Fit inconsistency | XC / DH |
| POC | Safety innovation | Conservative style | Gravel / Trail |
| Giro | All-around comfort | Less unique aesthetics | General riders |
Verdict: Troy Lee sits at the top tier of MTB brands — offering performance equal to or better than competitors, but with unmatched style and culture.
Sustainability & Manufacturing
TLD has made notable moves toward eco-conscious manufacturing, especially in its apparel lines.
- Use of recycled Bluesign® fabrics
- PVC-free printing and dyes
- Ethical factory compliance in all production facilities
While helmets still rely on synthetic materials, TLD is making real progress in reducing waste and using cleaner processes.
BBB Take: Not as green as Vaude, but far better than industry average for performance-focused brands.
Price & Value
TLD products sit in the premium range, but you’re paying for innovation, safety, and design identity.
| Category | Price Range | Value Score (10) |
|---|---|---|
| Helmets | $249–$599 | 9.8 |
| Apparel | $75–$180 | 9.3 |
| Protection | $90–$150 | 9.2 |
| Accessories | $30–$60 | 8.8 |
Verdict: Expensive but worth every dollar for serious riders who prioritize performance and safety.
Pros & Cons
- Pros:
- Best-in-class helmet safety and comfort
- Premium design and materials
- Distinct visual style
- Strong athlete heritage and feedback
- Long-term durability
- Cons:
- Expensive, especially full-face helmets
- Limited women’s-specific line
- Availability varies by region
Verdict & Final Take
Troy Lee Designs has evolved from a custom paint shop into one of the most iconic names in MTB.
Their products deliver a rare mix of elite safety, technical refinement, and unmistakable flair.
If you value comfort, performance, and individuality, TLD is as good as it gets.
FAQ — Troy Lee Designs Brand Review
Is Troy Lee Designs a good brand?
Yes — it’s one of the most respected MTB and moto brands in the world, trusted by elite athletes for safety and performance.
Where are Troy Lee helmets made?
TLD helmets are designed in California and produced in Asia under strict quality control.
Is the A3 helmet worth it?
Absolutely. It’s one of the most comfortable and protective trail helmets available today.
What’s the difference between the A3 and Stage helmets?
The A3 is an open-face trail helmet; the Stage is a lightweight full-face enduro helmet.
Does Troy Lee make sustainable apparel?
Yes — their Skyline and Flowline lines use Bluesign®-approved recycled materials.
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Why Trust This Review?
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